Box Beam Level Review

Irwin's new line of box-beam levels include some innovative features and accessories

I’ve tried a lot of levels over the years, but none has proved as accurate or as durable as the box-beam variety. Until recently, Stabila had this market all to itself. Now Irwin has introduced a line of box-beam levels that include some innovative features and accessories.

I got the chance to try out some of these new levels on a recent trim job, and I was pleased to find that they were spot-on accurate right out of the box. I can’t predict how the levels will stand up to years of job-site abuse, but their sturdy construction and thick rubber end bumpers inspire confidence. In fact, Irwin even guarantees that the accuracy of each level will be unaffected by a two-story drop. If the level’s vials ever are knocked out of true, they can be readjusted with a hex wrench or with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

The most useful feature that these box-beam levels include is a window and a mirror that let you read the vial-while plumbing a door, for example-without peering around the side of the level. These levels also are fitted with an ingenious keyhole to which a couple of handy attachments can be secured. Levels are available with or without magnets and also come in 48-in., 72-in., and 96-in. lengths.